What is Executive Function? A set of brain skills that allow us to plan, organize, prioritize, pay attention, remember details, and manage time and space effectively. 

It’s important because… Children with strong executive function skills are better equipped to regulate their emotions, control impulses, and engage in goal directed behavior – all important things they will need later in life.

Executive function is… like the conductor of an orchestra. Just as the conductor needs to coordinate the different instruments to create beautiful music, our brain’s executive function needs to coordinate different mental processes to achieve our goals and to solve problems effectively.

Executive function is… developed by letting children play. Through play, young children can develop and strengthen their problem-solving skills. Play encourages children to use their creativity and imagination, which helps in developing their cognitive flexibility and working memory.

Some way’s executive function is developed through play:

Imaginative play- Pretend play allows children to practice planning, organization, and problem-solving skills as they create and act out scenarios.

Building with blocks- Building structures with blocks helps children develop special awareness, planning and organizational skills.

Dressing up and role playing- Dressing up and role playing encourages children to practice empathy, social skills, and cognitive flexibility.

Outdoor play- Playing outdoors provides opportunity for children to develop motor skills, impulse control, and cognitive flexibility.

Games- Playing games helps children develop impulse control, planning, and decision-making skills. Games can include large and small group games, cards, or board games.

Musical instruments- Playing musical instruments helps children develop working memory and focus skills.

Play dough- Playing with playdough allows children to develop fine motor skills and improve focus.

Storytelling- Telling and creating stories helps children practice language skills, working memory and organizational skills.

Supporting and developing executive functioning has so many lifelong benefits. The good news is that we can do that simply by nurturing a child’s natural desire to engage in play and exploration!